Childhood Obesity Emerges As Major Health Challenge For Country

Obesity among children has emerged as a serious health threat for the country with steady increase in the incidence of varied non communicable diseases

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2019 ) :Obesity among children has emerged as a serious health threat for the country with steady increase in the incidence of varied non communicable diseases.

"It has emerged as a predisposing factor for diseases, ranging from coronary to cancers, among a bulging section soon to emerge as a potential human resource for the country," a senior diabetologist and researcher, Prof M Zaman Shaikh warned.

Talking to APP, he said almost every part of the country is being witnessed with childhood obesity which could be attributed to faulty approach on part of policy makers.

Authorities need to be more assertive in controlling unchecked projection and promotion of unhealthy food and drinks fast turning into addiction at the cost of precious health of growing children and youth, said Prof Shaikh.

Agreeing that children need energy dense foods comprising carbohydrates, fats, proteins and other nutrients, he said all these must be in controlled limits.

Referring to close linkage between food consumption and physical as well as mental health, Dr Zaman A Shaikh said it is to be duly realized that emotional well being of the entire nation is closely linked to their dietary habits.

"Equal attention is needed to counter growing sedentary life style among the large majority of people across the country," emphasized the senior medical expert.

Dr Shaikh agreed that parents themselves must act as a role model for their children in inculcating healthy lifestyle.

"Sluggish lifestyle of the people, both in rural and urban areas, has in itself emerged as a serious issue," he said mentioning that food indulgence is an all time favourite in all sections of the society.

In the same context, he emphasized that presently three white slow poisons are being consumed in form of white flour, sugar and salt exposing people of all age groups to severe health conditions.

Prof Shaikh regretted that little realization exists about moderation reiterating that food must be consumed within controlled limits necessarily complimented by a life style that must help adequate utilization of generated energy.

The senior diabetologist said there was equal need to promote healthy eating patterns, comprising a variety of nutrient-dense foods in appropriate portions for people pertaining to different age groups.

"Under all conditions these must be necessarily complimented by regular physical activity," he reiterated.

Healthy eating patterns, with major food portions comprising fresh vegetable and fruits were said to be prerequisite to maintain body weight targets.

"These interventions are equally beneficial to attain individualized glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol goals and to prevent or delay notorious diabetic complications," said the seasoned doctor.

Prof Zaman A Shaikh said nutritional needs based on personal and cultural preferences, literacy, access to healthful foods, willingness and ability to make behavioral changes must not be ignored.

Elaborating his stance on nutrient dense food, he reiterated that choice must be based on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, pulses and dairy products and options rich in fiber.

Regular physical exercise in the form of brisk morning walk for at least 30 minutes, sensible dieting, steady watch on body weight and avoiding smoking are equally important, he said.